How to Successfully Complete an Apartment Renovation NYC?

So, now that you've done the endless scrolling through Pinterest and creating multiple boards for inspiration, read a ton of articles on home renovations, and settled on a design style you want for your home-what now? Being prepared is the best thing you can do to equip yourself for your renovation project, as well as having realistic expectations which can help keep your stress levels low so you can actually enjoy designing the space.

That being said, apartment renovation NYC must be one of the most difficult places to pull off a renovation on budget and on time. Homeowners can often underestimate the level of coordination, permitting, planning and money it will take to get done. Not only that but the city's historic housing often comes with surprises that appear once you open up the walls. But don't worry, here are the top tips you can follow to best prepare for the successful completion of your apartment renovation New York.

Inspiration And Planning Your Apartment Renovation New York

Before setting up a budget and what you want to renovate, it's imperative that you know what your end goal is for your home or apartment renovation and the steps to complete a renovation. Are you renovating because you want more comfort or luxury in your home? Is it because of your growing family? Or do you plan to sell your home in the future?

Do your research as much as you can. Know which remodels will have a good return on investment. A reliable contractor-a company highly acquainted with NYC design and construction management — can certainly help.

While switching things in the middle of an apartment renovation in New York may not kill you, it will greatly hinder its fulfillment and add thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of dollars, to the project. Changing things after they have been arranged for and approved, is a real terror that should be evaded under almost all circumstances.

Finding inspiration is part of planning on your way to determine the design, materials, and then pricing. Most homeowners look for ideas online, in popular magazines, or on television. Instagram is a great social media platform for your apartment renovation NYC inspiration hunt. You can search for outstanding designs using hashtags for design or remodeling. A kitchen and bath showroom is also a useful source. With a showroom, you do not have to visualize the look of the space. You can also communicate with your contractors as they will be able to show you additional designs for your kitchen, bath, or whole small apartment renovation.

Sketch Out The Specifics

Alongside your contractor, put together a detailed plan and timetable. This gives everybody a schedule to follow and milestones to adhere to. It should also help manage expectations. Your current homeowners and liability insurance may not cover unforeseen problems relating to a renovation. It’s not unusual to be prepared for the worst, and hope for the best.

Forming a remodel budget is one of the most important actions for your Manhattan apartment renovation. Ask yourself what you can afford and what you can do just in case you go over the budget. It's crucial that you are upfront about your budget and talk about it with your contractor. Also, prepare that there will be extra costs due to building rules, regulations,s and insurance costs. After all, you’re going to be living with this stuff for years and it will trash your bank account if you try and retrofit a “fix” after the renovation is complete. Do it right from the beginning by assigning sufficient funds.

Assembling a Team For Your NYC Apartment Renovation

Picking the right individual or apartment renovation company to do the job is crucial. Find a contractor, architect, and/or engineer who has the knowledge, background – and references – in doing renovation jobs in New York City. There are plenty of NYC apartment renovation contractors who have that experience. Review their references, and don’t be shy about contacting them personally. Importantly, you should try to find a contractor who has all trade workers in-house, instead of counting on an array of casual sub-contractors. New York is known for its varied housing options, from 19th-century townhouses and luxury condos to prewar co-ops. Every residence is unique, something you can find even within apartments in the same building. Therefore, you want to pick a firm with experience in the kind of property you are trying to do your small apartment renovation. Ask for referrals, see their prior work, and ask questions about their pricing, the team they work with, and how long the project would take to complete. You want to make sure they understand the process and can maneuver it efficiently. What Pinterest doesn't show you are those annoying hiccups you can encounter along the design process, so having a qualified team helping you navigate will be crucial.

What Permits Will You Need For Your Home Renovation in New York?

The first thing you should do is check out the NYC Department of Buildings website which has a useful infographic that walks you through the procedure. There are some lesser projects that may not demand a permit, but in a lot of the cases when you're undergoing a full remodel, you'll need to be on the safe side and file your plans with the DOB. There are many different types of permits depending on what you're planning with your reno design and your architect will apply for the accurate permit. A good starting point would be acquiring a copy of your building's alteration agreement and reading it carefully. Understanding the approval process will help you during this, sometimes, lengthy process. To ensure your project gets approved it's wise to hire a contractor that has a person on the team who specifically handles the approvals. For more information about your NYC apartment renovation, you should contact the Department of Buildings Borough Office. For almost all construction projects you will need to obtain a Department of Buildings permit.

Simple repairs usually don't require a permit: installing shelving in your closets, replacing light fixtures, painting, refinishing wooden floors, or retiling your bathroom or kitchen floor. On the other hand, repairing projects and major changes such as structural work, electrical, heating, and plumbing projects will require a permit. Here are a few situations when a permit for your apartment renovation New York is needed: taking down a wall, remodeling the kitchen, and bathroom, and installing new windows.

How Much Does A New York Apartment Renovation Cost?

Like everything in New York, you can spend either a fortune or a modest amount on a renovation, depending on your wishes and budget. You should be upfront about your limitations and plan around them with your NYC apartment remodel team. Prepare for the fact that New York City projects can become costly due to building rules, insurance, and regulation costs. It may be tempting to choose the cheapest quote, but a lower rate contractor and less experienced architect are more likely to hit delays and change orders-which can ultimately increase costs significantly. The more decisions are made upfront and the more management and coordination you have, the higher the chances you have of finishing the job without delays. Bigger companies will have more resources to get your small apartment renovation NYC done quickly.

The more expensive contractors are more expensive because they do more work: they often have more supervision and management resulting in better Jobsite coordination. Additionally, they are usually better with paperwork, inspections, and bureaucracy. Cheaper contractors, on the other hand, usually substitute specified materials for lower quality, cheaper products. The work is often sloppy and unreliable, they know less about protocols or simply don't care to follow them, and they use unqualified individuals to do the work. The simple truth of the matter is the most expensive contractors are often the best contractors. For the number of headaches they might prevent in the long run they are worth every penny.

When planning your renovation project remember to account for the possibility you may need to move out for a while and rent a place to stay or book a hotel. It would be wise to reserve a little extra for apartment renovation costs for anything that might come up from water damage to possible plumbing relocation. It's always a good idea to anticipate and budget for potential risks. You just don't know what the walls may hold and with an old building, it can be a number of things-frayed electrical wires, rotted plumbing, or sagging wood joists. Rushed work can also risk damaging the building.

It often makes good sense to plan for anything you may want to do in the near future once you already have exposed wiring and plumbing. You may want to plan for a washer and dryer or a second bathroom. The cost of fabrication-templating and cutting whatever materials you are using is often not put into the quoted price; the same goes for installation. Many big-ticket items such as appliances come with hefty sales tax and delivery fees you may not have accounted for when budgeting. It's worth asking your architect or contractor to review your budget and flag missing apartment renovation cost.

Be Realistic About  Apartment Remodeling Timing

A big part of a contractor's responsibility is to make sure the owner understands how long an apartment renovation takes. This type of apartment renovation NYC will depend on a lot of factors coming together: hiring a contractor (2-4 weeks), the approval process (6-16 weeks), and the construction (2-6 months). 

When hiring a team for your NYC home renovation project you should consider design-to-build firms. They are a great way to get everything done with one team, which will make it quicker and hassle-free. The second step of the process can test your patience since the approval process can realistically last between 6 and 16 weeks, sometimes even longer for larger projects that require architects and work permits. Your management company has to ensure your apartment renovation New York being done is up to code, complies with the rules and regulations of the building and does not affect other tenants, and is also handled by insured and licensed professionals. Most management companies send even the most minor project proposals to the architect for review, due to the stricter building codes. This can take over a week.

The next step is to get board approval which is entirely up to the management company. If you have a large project that needs DOB Work Permit, this is when complications may arise. For example, if previous owners had done some illegal renovations that could extend the length of the project for months.

Concurrently with the approval process, you and your designer will be putting together the materials that will transform your dream into a reality. Make sure to be aware of lead times. Handmade and custom items of course take longer but are well worth the wait if you want to create a unique space. Taking on the task of ordering materials yourself can seem appealing If you want to save money, but in case something goes wrong you could be spending a lot of time and energy trying to get it all sorted out.

Finally, once you are ready to get down to the actual apartment renovation New York your contractor should provide you with a time frame for the work to be completed. Try and be open to the timeliness your construction team presents you with, an expert team that has planned ahead will definitely minimize delays. This is why it can be beneficial to hire a company that does it all in-house, it reduces the guesswork of a subcontractor fulfilling their job requirements on time and on budget. If you want just to renovate your kitchen within your apartment then don’t forget to read how long does a kitchen remodel take with all the steps before you start.

Dealing With Owners' Associations 

New York's apartment buildings are regulated by Owners' Associations of varying strictness and set rules for each building. These include everything from times you'd be allowed to work to where you can install your washer and dryer. Co-op boards tend to be more strict than condos-which could definitely derail your plans-so you should familiarize yourself with their policies before starting your apartment renovation New York project. 

On top of that, you'll have to take neighbors into consideration. Will the work affect adjacent homes or apartments? Do you have an understanding neighbor or one likely to file a complaint? If you live in an apartment building you will need to give notice to your neighbors before your project.  Do not be scared to ask questions or hire a contractor to help sort out the managerial side of this procedure.

When Things Go Wrong, Who is Responsible?

So, what happens if a worker gets injured on-site or a contractor breaks a pipe unexpectedly? There are two types of insurance: workmen's compensation for when someone gets hurt on the job, and liability insurance for when something goes wrong with the building. The best thing would be to ensure your contractor has liability insurance as well as workman's comp because they are less likely to disappear if issues come up on the job site. It's essential to hire a company with a system in place to handle these kinds of issues. You'll want to make sure your homeowner's policy protects you in case of a contractor-caused problem. Apartment owners sign a contract between them and the building confirming that their apartment renovation NYC will happen without damage to the building and completely up to code. 

What Steps Can You Take To De-Risk Your Renovation?

Identifying the electrical load of the apartment or ideally, performing an electrical load test is a good way to start lowering risks of unforeseen problems arising later in the project. An informal way to determine the electrical capacity of your apartment is to speak with the building super although performing an electrical load test by a licensed electrician is ideal. Identify what additional electrical work you should plan for in order to pass inspection. If your small apartment renovation NYC required electrical permits and a pass/fail inspection by NYC, chances are you will need to bring your apartment to the current electrical code in order for it to pass inspection. 

Asbestos is commonly found in certain building materials that were used in the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s although we’ve also come across asbestos in building materials used in the ’80s. An asbestos test is required if your renovation will require architectural plans but we recommend and perform them on almost all apartment renovation in New York in order to identify if any asbestos will be disturbed and whether there is a way to plan around having to disturb it. 

If your proposed floor plan includes removing or moving walls then probing those walls early in the planning process is crucial. It’s easy to determine what walls are load-bearing or potentially have plumbing inside of them by looking at a floor plan but not all walls can be designated as “ok to remove” by simply looking at a floor plan. 

Read your alteration agreement carefully. Many parts of the alteration agreement are boilerplate legal language but there are certain key sections that vary depending on the management company and individual co-op/condo boards.

Do’s And Don’ts Of Your NYC Apartment Renovation

 Do Stay Practical About Your Priorities

Do you need a design that will be as budget-friendly as possible, even if it means handling a lot of the small apartment renovation NYC yourself? If so, a labor-only contractor might be enough, but if you prefer someone to handle all of the details for you then hire an all-inclusive company.

Do Ask All Of The Questions

Make a list and add to it as you gather information. For instance, how much does an NYC renovation permit cost? What will you be responsible for, and what will the contractor manage? Who else must you hire? What will the apartment renovation cost by the end? Will your contractor be able to suggest different finishes and fixtures in regard to your budget? Don’t be fearful that asking questions will signal that you’re new to the process. You should find a contractor keen to provide you with valuable information rather than presenting only self-serving explanations.

Do Trust Your Instincts

At the end of the day, we’re all human, and we’re all clients. Even if you have no experience with apartment renovation New York, your experience steering through other aspects of life can come in handy. Listen to your gut if it tells you something isn’t a good fit for your project. Chances are that you need to move in a different direction in case a contractor is avoiding your questions or giving vague answers.

Don't Act Like You Know Everything

At this point, you should really know not to start by going into showrooms and selecting finishes before you know who your contractor will be. Do your research online, speak with multiple companies, and determine the process of small apartment renovation that makes the most sense for you. Do your research, and in case you are remodeling your kitchen as a part of the apartment renovation you can read about the steps to remodel a kitchen or how long does a kitchen remodel take. A good firm will take time to speak with you and will lead you in the right direction, even if you both decide your partnership isn’t a right fit..

Don't Settle For Less

So many customers admit to us that friends and family have warned them to anticipate problems like change orders during any renovation — as if it’s normal to get a quote for a precise time frame and cost only to end up with something totally different. Your proposal should be straightforward and clear, leaving no room for interpretation. Ensure that you know exactly what is included, from board-imposed apartment renovation New York work to finalizing touches. Don’t let your contractor get away with excluding work upfront to make your expense look more appealing.

New York City Apartment Renovation FAQ

The planning phase is especially vital previous to a full apartment renovation New York due to the large quantity of moving elements. A full reno entails three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, two bathrooms, and all the flooring throughout a 1700-square layout apartment, in which we upgrade every single aspect of the space. 

How Long Does It Take To Renovate An Apartment In NYC?

Your architect will be searching for board approvals and DOB permissions. This step can take a minimum of 2 to 4 months, longer for more elaborate projects. ( On average, half of a 12- month remodel will be spent in the design phase.) You'll also be working together to handpick the elements that will be installed. After approvals and permits are acquired, your architect can send out the design to contractors, who'll procure the permits and obtain all the materials. Nothing like your small apartment renovation NYC being held up because some appliance or fixture does not get in on time. Next is the demo stage, taking the building of safety measures around your worksite and any shared zones in your building that will be affected. 

Additionally, you would have to take into consideration unplanned repairs, failed DOB plumbing and electrical checkups, and any other change that can bring on extra holdups. Once work is completed, it’s time for the final DOB examination, contractor cleanup, and your own walk-through to check the to-do list. 

How Do I Plan An Apartment Renovation?

From minimizing mess to preserving shared spaces, understanding how to plan NYC home renovation will secure a home update in an apartment that runs effortlessly. So, whether it's facing limited space, or managing discontent neighbors, we cover all the effects you need to consider, so your design is primed for success. Deciding what you want to achieve with your space will help settle what work needs to be carried out. It'll also give you a better idea of the apartment renovation cost, time, and who needs to be involved. Consulting with trade professionals beforehand is highly recommended, as this will help you understand if your plans are feasible structurally and financially. Many will have loads of experience that can help you set realistic expectations for your design. Produce a design that would be approved fast by the planning authorities. Knowing what permission is demanded will save time, cash, and stress. Like most apartments, your contractor will require clearance from the landlord to modify the space. This depends on the property, so check with your managing agent first. The approval can take around 10 weeks, but we advise adding two or three months to your design schedule. 

Creating a defined budget will assure your apartment renovation New York remains on track financially. Having already renovated a flat, we understood the rough charges of most stuff. nonetheless, during the planning stage, we delved into everything that we required, including materials, parts, and labor charges. Having a budget per room is more manageable and I also recommend having a contingency of around 10 percent of your general design cost to get ahead of any surprises. When buying stuff for your addition, getting several quotations will guarantee you get the minimal price and keep within budget. It's smart to balance price with quality, as choosing the cheapest option can mean risking problems with the finish and lifetime of your NYC home renovation.

How To Renovate An Apartment Cheap?

Any remodel, no matter of size should entail a complete repaint of the interior walls, as this will make a huge difference to your apartment renovation NYC. It’s always smart to keep the colors neutral, but that does not have to be boring! If the structure of your bath is fine, you can make a big difference by modernizing the shower with a frameless shower, replacing the vanity and the toilet, and upgrading the fan and light duo. Wall tiles can be re-grouted or painted for a brand-new new look, wall mirrors can be updated and window blinds renewed. However, it can bring$ 20, 000 for a complete apartment renovation New York, If your kitchen could do with a makeover. On the other hand,re-skinning your kitchen can bring as little as$ 1000, depending on your preference of materials. Re-skinning means that you substitute the bench covers and cabinetry doors at the very least – greatly perfecting the look of your kitchen. Depending on your budget, you can also contemporize the backsplash and replace the sink as well, for a low-cost and fast kitchen makeover. old buildings generally have a very outdated choice of lighting and you might be surprised at the impact a lighting update can have on the vibe of your apartment.

How Do You Renovate A Small Apartment In NYC?

So how exactly DO you finish a small apartment renovation NYC? The first thing to do when planning an apartment reno is to establish your plans. Always start with big apartment renovation cost and work your way down to lower, more detailed decisions. However, particulars that you want, and also a wish list, If you're on a budget I would make a list of things that you need. Prioritizing is important. You need to delve into yet another truth about residing and renting or owning a home in New York choosing the right contractor is going to be the key to your happiness and preserving your wit. Your project plans will eventually need to be presented to the board for review and approval, and it’s smart to have a contractor who can win over even the toughest of boards. One of the first things when doing an apartment renovation New York is to hire an architect. You need to have a realistic budget. This will vary depending on the extent of work and the degree of the finishes. It's never too early to speak to a contractor, but don't anticipate them to give you a price with minimum information. They would only be speculating.

Hire Atmosphere Kitchen & Bath For Your Apartment Renovation NYC

If you are ready to take the plunge and want apartment renovation contractors that will walk you through these steps and help throughout the process-Atmosphere is the way to go! With a two-decade-long experience in remodeling and building properties, we are equipped to handle any project. Be it an entire brownstone or a single galley kitchen, we will design anything you envision! Atmosphere's team offers guidance through the selection process for all products needed to achieve your desired look. We have the knowledge and experience of acquiring all permits and handling all building requirements, including DOB permits and alterations agreements for your apartment renovation NYC. Providing on-staff tradesmen to meticulously execute your ideas, supplying all materials including plumbing fixtures, lighting, cabinet lines, flooring, and tiles-we will be there for you from conception to completion. So, come and meet us in our amazing 4.000-square-foot showroom, in the heart of Manhattan's Upper West Side. We’re excited to hear about your project, get in touch with us today!